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With its mild climate, 3000 hours of sunshine per year and 850 kms of splendid beaches bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is the perfect holiday destination all year round. This is a country that has the oldest borders in Europe, with an exceptional range of different landscapes just a short distance away, lots of leisure activities and a unique cultural heritage, where tradition and modernity blend together in perfect harmony. Its superb cuisine, fine wines and hospitable people make this a tourist paradise of the highest quality. Situated in the extreme south-west of Europe, just a few hours from any of the other European capitals, Portugal attracts visitors from all over the world.

Day 1: Arrival and Day at Leisure

Arrival at Lisbon airport, where you are met and transferred to the 4 star Pestena Palace (or similar 4 star hotel) with accommodation in superior room including breakfast daily.

Day 2: Gourmet Portuguese Food and Wine Tour

Meet your guide in central Lisbon and begin your small-group gourmet food and wine tour. Throughout the tour you’ll meet locals and learn about traditional Portuguese dishes and culinary culture. Warm up your taste buds during a visit to a local restaurant, with petiscos — Portugal’s version of tapas. Learn about Lisbon’s cafe culture with visits to the 18th-century Café Nicola, a terrific spot for tertúlias, and discover why Pastelaria Suiça is another landmark of Rossio. You’ll also have a chance to try the famous Portuguese Codfish Cake with a glass of refreshing vinho verde (green wine). Continue to a wine bar in the Bairro Alto quarter for tapas and a glass of local white wine. Visit one of the most famous restaurants in Lisbon, Cervejaria da Trindade, known for its seafood and steaks. Then head down the steps of Calçada do Duque, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants with great esplanades and music. The area is especially popular during the summer months because of the views over Castle Hill. Then discover the 100-year-old secrets behind Lisbon’s most delectable sausages, salted Bacalhau, hams, and cheeses at local gourmet shop. At a nearby bar, sip a classic Portuguese cherry brandy and note its similarities with Port, Portugal’s famed fortified wine. Learn about the history of the sweet drink as you taste it alongside a piece of São Jorge cheese. Learn the history of Ginjinha, the favorite liqueur of many Portuguese, and try it at the first place that started to sell it in 1840. Afterward, go to Portas de Santo Antão Street, one of the city’s main entrances, where part of the old Fernandine wall once sat. Finish your gourmet Portuguese food and wine tour with a meal at the Neo-Moorish Casa do Alentejo, a gorgeous 17th century palace. Taste chouriço sausage, bread, and other local products served with a glass of delicious red wine while admiring one of the most captivating Lisbon interiors. Your tour will conclude here.

Day 3: Sintra Royal Palaces Day Trip

Delve into the heart of Sintra’s royal palaces during a full-day guided tour of Pena Palace, Queluz Palace and Pena Park. Formerly a haven for Portuguese elites and royalty, the UNESCO-listed town of Sintra is renowned for its abundance of illustrious palaces and extravagant mansions scattered among the forested hillsides. During this tour, marvel at ornate medieval to late Baroque style architecture at Queluz National Palace and Pena National Palace, and upgrade to include lunch. Embark on a journey to Sintra’s royal palaces as you kick off your guided tour from your central Lisbon hotel. Board an air-conditioned coach and begin a 30-minute drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra, renowned for its 19th-century Romantic architectural monuments. Stop first at the 18th-century Queluz Palace, often referred to as the Portuguese Versailles. Gaze over its beautiful gardens layered with detailed fountains and statues as you approach one of Europe’s last Rococo buildings. Enter with your guide and venture through the luxurious Royal Bedroom and grand Throne Room. Stare at the refined domed ceiling and enjoy its rich ambiance. Then, head to the town of Sintra for a lunch (included if option selected), or enjoy some free time to explore by foot, perhaps stopping at the Sintra Palace at your own expense. Afterward, rendezvous with your guide and head to the famous Pena Palace, arguably Sintra’s most well known castle. Explore the colorful and eclectic architecture of this storybook palace with your guide. Learn how this palace was designed with characteristics similar to Bavaria’s iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. Top off the day with a guided walk around Pena Park before tour concludes.

Day 4: Departure

This trip includes:

  • 3 nights at 4* Pestena Palace (or similar) in superior room with Breakfast
  • Tours Mentioned above
  • Roundtrip airport/rail station to hotel transportation

This trip doesn’t include:

  • Travel insurance
  • Meals and beverages not indicated in “This trip includes”
  • Local city tax
  • Entry fees to sights & museums unless noted
  • Transportation to and from tour meeting points
  • Tips/Gratuity
  • Airfare